A dentist in Michigan was arraigned on May 27 for allegedly running a Medicaid fraud scheme and now faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted, according to a press release dated May 28 from the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Dr. Demetra C. Kazanis, 55, who was practicing at the New You Dental clinic in Livonia, MI, was charged with one count of conducting a criminal enterprise and 42 counts of Medicaid fraud. She was given a $50,000 personal recognizance bond, according to the press release.
Kazanis, of Northville, MI, allegedly repeatedly billed Medicaid for dental fillings that were either not performed or were performed as less invasive preventive resin restorations to receive greater reimbursements.
“Abuse of the Medicaid program diverts critical funds from those in need,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said in the press release. “Patients should be able to trust their dentist to provide appropriate care, just as taxpayers should be able to trust Medicaid providers to bill honestly.”
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
